The three letters of 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus are also known as the “pastoral epistles” because they contain practical guidelines for the training and choosing of leaders in the church. Leadership qualities cited here include:
- A good reputation. Someone who has the respect of other people has already shown his or her ability to put others first.
- Marital faithfulness. Loyalty to the primary commitment of marriage usually foretells loyalty to the rest of one’s commitments.
- Children who believe and act like it. Can a leader in the church hope to disciple others if those closest to him or her do not embrace the faith?